BS MS PhD Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2026
Fully Funded Scholarships Canada continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for international students seeking world-class education. For 2026, numerous fully funded scholarship opportunities are available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students, ranging from prestigious government-funded programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship to university-specific awards at institutions like Concordia, McGill, and UBC .
These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and additional academic costs, making it possible for talented students from around the world to pursue their educational dreams at top Canadian universities without financial burden .
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (PhD)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (CGS) is the most prestigious doctoral scholarship offered by the Government of Canada. Launched in 2008, it aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students who demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement .
Fully Funded Scholarships : Program Overview
Category Details
- Degree Level PhD
- Award Value $50,000 per year for 3 years
- Number of Awards Up to 166 scholarships annually
- Eligible Students Both Canadian and international students
- Administered By CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC
Scholarship Benefits
The Vanier CGS is fully funded and provides :
✅ $50,000 per year for three years (tax-free)
✅ Covers tuition and living expenses
✅ Freedom to choose any Canadian university with a Vanier quota
✅ No interview process – selection based solely on application documents
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Eligibility Criteria
Academic Requirements :
- First-class academic average in the last two years of study
- Cannot have previously enrolled in or completed another PhD program
- Must be pursuing your first PhD
Leadership and Research :
- Demonstrated leadership skills in academic, community, or professional settings
- Strong research potential with a detailed research plan
- Original research focus is essential
Nomination Process :
- You cannot apply directly to the Vanier program
- Must be nominated by a Canadian university with a Vanier CGS quota
- Apply to the university first, then they nominate you
The Vanier scholarship is administered through Canada’s three federal research funding agencies: the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) .
2. Concordia University Scholarships (BS, MS, PhD)
Concordia University in Montreal offers a range of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for international students at all degree levels .
Scholarship Types
Scholarship Level Coverage
- Presidential Scholarship BS, MS, PhD Full tuition, living expenses, books
- International Tuition Award of Excellence BS Significant tuition reduction
- Graduate Scholarships MS, PhD Research assistantships, teaching assistantships
- Merit-Based Awards All levels Varies by program
Benefits
Depending on the scholarship type, benefits may include :
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation support
- Health insurance coverage
- Research and academic funding
Eligibility
- Open to international students from all countries
- Strong academic record required
- English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent – some programs may offer waivers)
- Must apply for admission to Concordia University
Many scholarships are awarded automatically based on admission, while some require separate applications .
3. UBC MBA and Master’s Scholarships
The University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business offers numerous scholarships for Master’s students, including the MBA+MBAN Dual Degree program .
Available Scholarships
Scholarship Value Deadline (International)
- International Talent Scholarships $10,000 – $60,000 March 10, 2026
- Women in Business Leadership $10,000 – $60,000 March 10, 2026
- Responsible Business & Community Spirit $10,000 – $60,000 March 10, 2026
- Dean’s Excellence in Diversity Award $25,000 – Full Tuition March 10, 2026
- Regional Top Talent Scholarships $10,000 – Full Tuition January 9, 2026 (Asia)
- Global Leadership Awards $20,000 – $60,000 October 14, 2025
- Dean’s Entrance Scholarship $20,000 – $60,000 January 9, 2026
Key Details
- All international applicants must submit documents by March 10, 2026
- Official document deadline: June 30, 2026
- Scholarships are merit-based and awarded to top talent from around the world
4. McGill University Entrance Scholarships (BS)
McGill University offers two types of entrance scholarships for first-time undergraduate students .
One-Year Scholarships
Detail Information
- Value $3,000 (non-renewable)
- Application Automatic consideration based on admission
- Eligibility All first-time undergraduate students
Major Entrance Scholarships
Detail Information
- Value $3,000 – $48,000 ($3,000-$12,000 per year, renewable up to 4 years)
- Application Separate application required after admission submission
- Deadline Opens October 1st on Applicant Portal
- Eligibility Based on academic excellence and outstanding leadership
Additional Benefits for Scholarship Winners
- Guaranteed one of top three residence choices
- Priority registration for courses
- Prestige Scholars Mentorship Program for top award recipients
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – MS and PhD
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program encourages excellence in graduate studies at publicly-assisted universities in Ontario .
Program Details
Category Information
- Value $5,000 per term up to $15,000 maximum
- Duration Up to one year (non-renewable)
- Eligibility Both domestic and international students
- Disciplines All academic disciplines
Important Dates for 2026-2027
- January 14, 2026: Intent to Apply web form deadline
- February 1, 2026: Application and transcripts deadline
- February 1, 2026: Reference letters deadline
Eligibility Requirements
- First-class average (minimum A-/80%) in last two years of study
- International applicants must hold a valid study permit
- Must be registered full-time at a participating Ontario university
Successful recipients typically have averages of 85% or higher, peer-reviewed publications, and previous scholarship experience .
6. Study in Canada Scholarships (Short-Term)
Global Affairs Canada offers the Study in Canada Scholarships program for short-term exchange programs .
Program Overview
Category Details
- Duration 4 to 6 months
- Coverage Airfare, living expenses, health insurance, visa fees
- Application Canadian institutions apply on behalf of students
- Deadline March 31, 2026
Note: Canadian post-secondary institutions must submit applications for their students .
Comparison of Major Scholarships
Scholarship Level Value Deadline International Eligible?
- Vanier CGS PhD $50,000/year (3 years) Varies by institution (Nov 2026) Yes
- Concordia Presidential BS, MS, PhD Full tuition + living Open (program-specific) Yes
- UBC MBA Scholarships Master’s $10,000 – Full tuition March 10, 2026 Yes
- McGill Major Entrance BS $3,000 – $48,000 total Opens Oct 1 Yes
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship MS, PhD Up to $15,000/year Jan-Feb 2026 Yes
Tips for a Successful Application
1. Start Early
The application process for Canadian scholarships is lengthy and requires careful preparation. Begin researching universities, preparing documents, and identifying potential supervisors at least 6-8 months before deadlines .
2. Understand the Nomination Process
For scholarships like Vanier CGS, you cannot apply directly. You must first gain admission to a Canadian university, and then the university nominates you .
3. Prepare Strong Supporting Documents
Your application should include :
- Academic transcripts showing first-class standing
- Research proposal (for graduate programs) outlining your project
- Leadership statement highlighting your contributions and impact
- Strong letters of recommendation from academic referees
- Updated CV with publications, presentations, and awards
4. Focus on Leadership
Canadian scholarships place strong emphasis on leadership potential. Document your involvement in community activities, volunteer work, and any leadership roles you have held .
5. Follow Formatting Rules Exactly
Scholarship reviewers will reject applications that don’t follow formatting guidelines. Pay attention to font size, margins, page limits, and spacing requirements .
6. Apply to Multiple Opportunities
You can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. However, if you receive multiple offers, you must choose only one .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can international students apply for Canadian government scholarships?
A: Yes, programs like Vanier CGS and Ontario Graduate Scholarship are open to international students. Some provincial scholarships may have restrictions, so always check eligibility .
Q2: Do I need to know English or French to study in Canada?
A: Most universities require English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Some French-language institutions may require French proficiency. Certain programs may offer waivers based on prior education .
Q3: Can I work while studying in Canada?
A: International students can work part-time during studies and full-time during breaks under Canadian immigration rules .
Q4: Are scholarships automatically awarded with admission?
A: Some scholarships are awarded automatically based on academic merit (like McGill’s one-year $3,000 scholarship). Others require separate applications (like major entrance scholarships and Vanier CGS) .
Q5: What is the lifetime maximum for government-funded awards?
A: Students cannot exceed a lifetime maximum of six years of government-funded graduate awards, including OGS, QEII-GSST, and Tri-Agency Scholarships .
Q6: Can I hold multiple scholarships concurrently?
A: Some scholarships cannot be held concurrently. For example, students cannot hold both an OGS and a tri-agency scholarship in the same competition year .
Q7: Is there an age limit for Canadian scholarships?
A: There is generally no strict age limit, but applicants must meet academic and enrollment requirements for their chosen program.
Why Study in Canada?
- World-Class Education: Canadian universities consistently rank among the top globally, offering cutting-edge research facilities and renowned faculty
- Affordable Tuition: Compared to the US and UK, Canadian education offers excellent value with strong scholarship support
- Multicultural Environment: Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world, welcoming international students from all backgrounds
- Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: International graduates can apply for post-graduation work permits, gaining valuable Canadian work experience
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Canada offers multiple immigration pathways for international graduates who wish to stay after their studies
Analysis by Best Pak Mag
Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking fully funded scholarships, and 2026 offers exceptional opportunities across BS, MS, and PhD levels. The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship stands out as the most prestigious doctoral award, providing $50,000 per year for three years to top PhD candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership ability .
For undergraduate students, McGill University’s entrance scholarships offer renewable funding up to $48,000 over four years, along with valuable perks like priority registration and guaranteed residence placement . Concordia University’s Presidential Scholarship provides comprehensive coverage for exceptional students at all levels, while their automatic consideration process makes applying straightforward .
Graduate students have multiple pathways to funding. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program, administered through participating universities, provides up to $15,000 per year for Master’s and PhD students with first-class standing . UBC Sauder’s extensive scholarship portfolio offers awards ranging from $10,000 to full tuition for MBA and Master’s students, with specific awards for women leaders, community-focused applicants, and regional talent from Asia, Africa, and other regions .
A key advantage of Canadian scholarships is the emphasis on leadership and community involvement alongside academic excellence. The Vanier program explicitly weights leadership at 33.3% of the evaluation, recognizing that tomorrow’s research leaders need more than just strong grades . This holistic approach benefits students who have made meaningful contributions to their communities.
For prospective applicants, the most critical advice is to start early. The Vanier application timeline recommends beginning work in May for an August deadline, allowing time for multiple drafts, feedback from supervisors, and coordination with referees . Many scholarships require university nomination, so securing admission to a strong program is the essential first step.
With deadlines ranging from January through November 2026, students should create a timeline based on their target programs. The UBC Regional Top Talent Scholarships for Asia closed in January, but the International Talent Scholarships deadline of March 10, 2026, is still open . The Ontario Graduate Scholarship deadlines in February are approaching, so interested students should prepare immediately .
Canada’s commitment to attracting global talent through these generous funding programs makes it an ideal destination for students seeking world-class education without financial burden. Whether you’re pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at McGill, a Master’s at UBC, or a PhD through the Vanier program, fully funded opportunities await.
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